6 Steps to Starting a Small Business | The Small Business Start-up Guide

Starting a small business in New Jersey can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, it can also be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you're new to the process. In this article, we'll cover the basics of starting a small business in NJ, including legal requirements, registration, and resources to help you get started.

1) Determine Your Business Structure

Before you can start your small business, you'll need to determine your business structure. The most common business structures are:

• Sole Proprietorship: This is the simplest and most common business structure. The business is owned and operated by one person, and there is no legal distinction between the owner and the business.

• Partnership: This is when two or more people own and operate a business together.

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): This is a hybrid business structure that combines the liability protection of a corporation with the simplicity and tax benefits of a partnership or sole proprietorship.

• Corporation: This is a legal entity that is separate from its owners, meaning it can enter into contracts, sue, and be sued.

2) Register Your Business

Once you've determined your business structure, you'll need to register your business with the state of New Jersey. The New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services is responsible for registering businesses in the state. You can register your business online or by mail.

3) Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

Depending on the type of business you're starting, you may need to obtain specific permits or licenses. The New Jersey Business Action Center provides a list of all the licenses and permits you may need to obtain based on your business type.

4) Obtain Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify your business for tax purposes. If you plan to hire employees or operate as a partnership or corporation, you'll need to obtain an EIN.

5) Obtain Business Insurance

Business insurance is essential to protect your business from unforeseen events, such as accidents, natural disasters, or lawsuits. You may need to obtain liability insurance, property insurance, or other types of insurance, depending on the nature of your business.

6) Consider Business Resources

Starting a small business can be challenging, but there are resources available to help you. The New Jersey Business Action Center offers free resources and services to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) provides resources and counseling to small business owners.

In conclusion, starting a small business in New Jersey requires careful planning and preparation. By following the steps outlined above and utilizing available resources, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your entrepreneurial dreams.

Tune in to my podcast, The Accidental Entrepreneur, or subscribe to Legal Insights Blog for more helpful resources for establishing and maintaining a successful business. Avoid the common pitfalls business owners often make and protect your business with legal advice you can trust. Get in touch for more information about the legal documents you might need for your business, to suggest future podcast and blog topics, or to become a guest on my show here.